Rogers is expanding its satellite-to-mobile roaming service, which runs on SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, to Japan, Australia and New Zealand, giving customers coverage in more places where traditional cellular networks do not reach.
The update announced today brings the carrier’s international satellite roaming footprint to four countries, including the United States.
Earlier this year, Rogers said it was the first and only Canadian carrier to offer satellite-to-mobile roaming in the U.S. The new destinations extend that same approach to three more countries, so customers can stay connected abroad when traditional cellular networks are out of reach.
“Canadians want to stay connected wherever their travels take them,” said Mark Kennedy, Chief Technology Officer at Rogers. “With satellite-to-mobile roaming in Japan, Australia and New Zealand, we’re extending coverage to more destinations around the world so customers can stay connected when travelling abroad.”
In areas without cellular service, the technology supports text messaging and access to satellite-ready apps. Rogers says that includes messaging through WhatsApp, Messenger and X, navigation with Google Maps and AllTrails, and real-time weather through AccuWeather, with more apps on the way. That follows earlier work to keep messaging and outdoor apps working when there is no tower nearby.
For Rogers customers, satellite-to-mobile roaming is included in Ultimate, Popular and Essentials plans, as well as eligible ‘Roam Like Home’ options and select Travel Passes. The carrier did not announce a separate add-on fee for Japan, Australia or New Zealand in its statement.
Rogers’ announcement on Thursday describes the expansion as satellite-to-mobile roaming and does not name Starlink or SpaceX, even though the service runs on Starlink satellites.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Canada will diversify away from Starlink, telling the New York Times in September, “Starlink, we will diversify away from, no question.” On October 23 in Istanbul, after Ukraine reported a slowdown on SpaceX satellite links, he said Canadians do not want to be caught relying on one provider that may change its view, and pointed to decisions to diversify and build sovereign capabilities in Canada and with partners. Ontario earlier cancelled its $100 million Starlink contract, and the federal government has backed Telesat’s Lightspeed network as a Canadian alternative.
The move comes as Canadian carriers keep pushing satellite phone coverage further afield. Rogers has also been watching how Starlink Mobile plans could evolve in Canada, alongside broader industry moves into satellite-to-phone service.
Will Japan, Australia or New Zealand satellite roaming change how you pack for your next trip abroad?
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